How to choose what iCloud syncs on Mac

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
macOS 15.0 - MacBook Pro M4
You will need
Apple ID credentials, active internet connection

Step by step

  1. 30 sec

    Open System Settings

    Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen. Select System Settings from the drop-down menu.

    Note: Ensure your macOS is updated to the latest version for consistent menu layouts.
  2. 20 sec

    Select your Apple Account

    Click your name displayed at the very top of the sidebar. This opens your Apple Account management pane.

  3. 30 sec

    Open iCloud settings

    Locate the iCloud section in the main window. Click the iCloud button to view all syncable services and applications.

  4. 1 min

    Manage synced apps

    Click the See All Apps button under the Apps Syncing to iCloud heading. Toggle the switches next to each application to enable or disable iCloud sync for that specific data set.

    Note: Disabling sync removes the local data copy if requested by the system; confirm your choice in the dialog box.
  5. 10 sec

    Confirm changes

    Review your selections. Close the System Settings window to save your preferences automatically.

    Note: Syncing may take a few moments to reflect changes across your other linked devices.